15 //
>> 03 — PROTECTING MERCURY’S BUSINESS AND REPUTATION.
SPEAKING ON BEHALF OF MERCURY. Anything you say publicly can have a wide impact on how people see Mercury. We have a planned approach to releasing information and other news. There are a small number of people authorised to speak on behalf of Mercury. This is to protect both the Company’s reputation and you.
IF YOU SEE WHAT LOOKS LIKE A MEDIA RISK, CALL THE COMMUNICATIONS TEAM IMMEDIATELY.
Q+A
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: • Only make comments on behalf of Mercury if you’ve received prior approval to do so. This includes the media and external parties like businesses, suppliers, Government agencies, speeches and conferences. • If a reporter asks to talk – even “off the record” – explain you’re unable to help but can put them in touch with someone; then give the media contact details below. You could also offer to pass their information on. Either way, call the Communications team immediately – reporters work to tight deadlines. • If you see what looks like a media risk (for example, an issue in the business or filming or photographing at a Mercury site), call the Communications team immediately.
• Read and understand the Mercury Media Policy. CALL THE MEDIA PHONE ANY TIME, 24/7: 027 210 5337 MEDIA EMAIL: MEDIA@MERCURY.CO.NZ (PLEASE CALL, THIS PHONE DOESN’T RECEIVE TEXTS)
Q. I’m on a project team for a recently launched customer offer and a friend asked me about it. I know she’s a reporter, what should I do? A. Explain you can’t share details and encourage her to call our Media phone number if she has any questions. Alert the Communications team.
Q. A vendor we used recently has asked if they can quote us on their website. They did a great job, so shall we agree to this? A. Requests to endorse products or companies could have reputational or legal implications. Ask the Communications team for advice.
Q. I spoke at a conference and inadvertently said something I shouldn’t have. What should I do?
A. Let the Communications team know straight away. If there are media there who are asking questions about your comments, provide them the Mercury Media phone number.
